Zimbabwe’s National Assembly on Thursday approved a controversial constitutional amendment that would extend presidential terms from five to seven years, a move that could enable President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.
Lawmakers voted 216 in favour of the legislation, comfortably exceeding the two-thirds majority of 187 votes required. The bill now advances to the Senate, where the ruling ZANU-PF party holds strong control and is expected to approve it. The proposed change would add two years to Mnangagwa’s current second term, which is scheduled to end in 2028.
The 83-year-old leader, who came to power after the 2017 military coup that ousted long-time ruler Robert Mugabe, was elected president in 2018 and re-elected in 2023. The development marks a sharp reversal from Mnangagwa’s public position less than a year ago.
In 2025, he firmly rejected speculation about term extension, stating: “I have two terms, and these terms are very definite… when they come to an end I will step aside.”
Nicknamed “the crocodile,” Mnangagwa has faced growing questions about his political future as he approaches the end of his constitutionally mandated tenure. If the amendment is signed into law, it would allow him to serve an additional two years beyond 2028.
A story of courage, wonder, and the transformative power of self-belief; perfect for readers aged 10+ who love adventure. To place order: +234 806 130 3237 | +234 803 582 0870 OR Tap the link to grab a copy:https://www.zeekapublish.com/product/the-magical-life-of-anna
